Jesse Marsch, the Wisconsin-born head coach of the Canadian men’s national soccer team, did not hold back in criticizing U.S. President Donald Trump’s repeated “51st state” comments about Canada. Speaking to the press at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles on Wednesday, ahead of next month’s CONCACAF Nations League Finals, Marsch expressed his discontent with the rhetoric that has sparked tension between the two nations. His comments came in the wake of Trump’s claims that Canada should become part of the U.S., a notion he has floated several times, even suggesting the use of “economic force” to make it happen.
Marsch, who has been in charge of the Canadian team since May 2024 after his departure from Premier League club Leeds United, sharply rebuked the president’s remarks, calling them “insulting” and “unsettling.” Marsch conveyed his frustration, stating, “If I have one message to our president, it’s lay off the ridiculous rhetoric about Canada being the 51st state.”
The former U.S. men’s national team player continued, “As an American, I’m ashamed of the arrogance and disregard that we’ve shown one of our historically oldest, strongest, and most loyal allies.” His pointed words reflected the growing resentment over the President’s dismissive attitude toward Canada, especially considering the long-standing relationship between the two countries.
Marsch’s criticism extended to a broader view of the political climate in the U.S., contrasting it with the values he sees in Canada. “Canada is a strong, independent nation that’s deep-rooted in decency,” Marsch said, adding that it is a place that “values high ethics and respect”—qualities, he argued, that are often missing in the increasingly polarized and hate-fueled environment of the U.S.
Trump’s rhetoric surrounding Canada, which began shortly after his inauguration, has been a point of contention. The President has openly referred to Canada as the “51st state” on multiple occasions, and earlier this year, he even labeled Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau as a “governor” in what was seen as a further insult to Canada’s sovereignty.
Marsch emphasized the unique, multicultural identity of the Canadian men’s soccer team, noting that most of his players are first- and second-generation Canadians, representing diverse heritages and cultures. “People really believe that their differences make them stronger,” he explained, highlighting the pride his players have in their Canadian identity. “They are uniquely incredibly proud to be Canadian, to represent their country, to give everything to the love that they have for each other and playing for their country.”
The coach’s words clearly resonated with his team, and they are more determined than ever to showcase what they believe represents true Canadian character. Marsch made it clear that his players are motivated both on and off the field to show the world the strength and unity of their nation.
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Looking ahead to the upcoming CONCACAF Nations League Finals, Marsch’s squad, ranked 31st in the world, will face off against Mexico (ranked 19th) in one semifinal on March 20, while the U.S. (ranked 16th) will play Panama (ranked 36th) in the other. The final and third-place matches will be played three days later.
In response to Marsch’s remarks, Oguchi Onyewu, vice president of U.S. Soccer, was focused on the competition itself, emphasizing the intense nature of the tournament. “My main focus right now and the U.S.’s focus is the competition ahead and hopefully coming back as a four-peat champion,” Onyewu said. However, Marsch’s passionate defense of Canadian sovereignty has sparked further dialogue about the political tensions between the two nations, particularly in the context of the Nations League.
The ongoing tensions between the U.S. and Canada, notably since January when Trump referred to Canada as the 51st state and labeled Trudeau as a governor, continue to loom large over the upcoming competition. With the political climate in the background, the Canadian men’s national team, under Marsch’s leadership, will take to the field with pride and resolve to prove their independence and strength on the world stage.